STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Time"
#40275-209
Written by
Rick Berman
Directed by
Paul Lynch
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
FINAL DRAFT
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - CAST
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Time"
CAST
PICARD BERLINGOFF RASMUSSEN
RIKER HAL MOSELEY
DATA FEMALE SCIENTIST
BEVERLY
TROI
GEORDI
WORF
Non-Speaking
N.D. SCIENTISTS
AN ENSIGN
Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES
AN ENGINEER
ENGINEERING CREW
SECURITY GUARD
A NURSE
A BOY IN SICKBAY
A MALE PATIENT
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - SETS
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Time"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
USS ENTERPRISE USS ENTERPRISE
MAIN BRIDGE
CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM RASMUSSEN'S VESSEL
ENGINEERING
TURBOLIFT PENTHARA FOUR
CORRIDOR CITY (MATTE)
TEN-FORWARD
SICKBAY
RASMUSSEN'S GUEST QUARTERS
SHUTTLEBAY
PENTHARA FOUR
SCIENCE LAB
RASMUSSEN'S VESSEL
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
"A Matter of Time"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
at warp speed.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45333.3.
The Enterprise is on its way to
Penthara Four where a type C
asteroid has struck an unpopulated
continent.
2 INT. GEORDI'S OFFICE
NUMEROUS ENGINEERING CREW are busily working with
GEORDI and DATA.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
The resulting dust cloud could
very well create a phenomenon not
unlike the nuclear winters of
twenty-first-century Earth.
Commander La Forge has begun work
on a plan that would counteract
the devastation.
Geordi looks over as RIKER ENTERS.
GEORDI
I'm afraid the numbers coming in
are already indicating climatic
changes, sir.
RIKER
What kind of drop can we expect?
DATA
If the Pentharan spheral forecasts
are correct, ten to twelve degrees
Celsius within the first ten days.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
GEORDI
If it continues like that, their
entire ecosystem will be shot
to hell.
RIKER
And I doubt they're prepared to
cope with the kind of cold that's
coming.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Commander Riker.
RIKER
(keys combadge)
Yes, Captain.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
Would you join me on the bridge,
please.
RIKER
On my way.
(to guys)
Let me know if those forecast
numbers change.
Geordi and Data acknowledge as Riker EXITS.
3 INT. BRIDGE
PICARD, WORF, AN ENSIGN at theconn, and SUPERNUMERARIES
at various stations.
PICARD
Are you certain, Worf?
WORF
There was a space/time
distortion, sir. And there is
something back there. We passed
within three hundred kilometers
of it.
PICARD
A bit close for coincidence.
(to com)
Mister La Forge?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Yes, sir.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - TEASER 3.
3 CONTINUED:
PICARD
Would a delay of an hour affect
your plans?
INTERCUT:
4 INT. GEORDI'S OFFICE
GEORDI
Not unless another asteroid
decides to pay a call on Penthara,
sir.
DATA
The odds of that occurring,
Captain, are extremely unlikely,
given the time frame.
5 INT. BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS
as Riker ENTERS.
PICARD
Thank you, Mister Data.
(to Ensign)
Prepare to come about, Ensign.
Let's take a look at Mister Worf's
distortion.
ENSIGN
Aye, sir.
RIKER
Mister Worf's what?
PICARD
The Lieutenant's sensors detected
a temporal distortion, Number One,
almost directly on our current
course. There seems to be a small
object back there that wasn't
there a few moments ago.
On Riker and Picard's mutual curiosity...
6 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
comes out of warp and makes a sweeping turn.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - TEASER 4.
7 INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)
As before.
WORF
The object is fifty kilometers
ahead, sir.
PICARD
Full stop, Ensign.
ENSIGN
Aye, sir.
PICARD
On screen.
A view of a tiny multifaceted spacecraft appears.
RIKER
Dimensions, Worf?
WORF
Approximately five meters in
length, sir.
PICARD
Lifesigns?
WORF
No signs of any kind, sir.
Sensors are not penetrating its
hull.
PICARD
Try hailing it.
WORF
(pushes a series
of buttons)
That's odd.
RIKER
What's odd?
WORF
We've received a response, sir,
but...
PICARD
(get on with it)
Yes, Mister Worf?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - TEASER 5.
7 CONTINUED:
WORF
They want you to... "Move over,"
sir.
PICARD
(looks at Riker and then
back at Worf)
Reply that the Enterprise isn't
going anywhere, Lieutenant.
WORF
Not the Enterprise, Captain. You.
Picard turns and walks toward Worf.
PICARD
What are you trying to...
Suddenly there's a bright flash where Picard had been
standing. RASMUSSEN, a kindly-looking human male in
his late forties, APPEARS. He is wearing a drab,
nondescript jump suit and a baggy "lab" jacket. He
carries a small valise.
RASMUSSEN
Excuse me, Captain, but you were
standing right where I needed to
be.
PICARD
Who are you?
RASMUSSEN
Rasmussen's the name, sir.
Professor Berlinghoff Rasmussen.
(looking around in
amazement)
Ah... this is wonderful.
Actually, quite a bit larger than
I thought.
PICARD
Really?
RASMUSSEN
Where I come from, every historian
knows the bridge of old 1701-D.
PICARD
And where exactly is it you come
from?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - TEASER 6.
7 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
Why Earth... late twenty-sixth
century Earth, to be exact. You
see, I've traveled back nearly
three hundred years just to find
you.
Off their reactions we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
8 INT. READY ROOM
Picard sits behind his desk while Rasmussen paces,
checking things out.
PICARD
Exactly what kind of historian
are you?
RASMUSSEN
(as he continues to
pace, picking things
up, turning them over)
My focus is on the twenty-second
through the twenty-fourth centuries,
early interstellar history.
(picking up Picard's
Shakespeare volume)
You know, it was always believed
this was on your desk, not here...
Fascinating.
(he turns to Picard,
good naturedly)
Now don't move it on my account.
PICARD
You can't expect me to believe
that the layout of my ready room
is of interest to future
historians...
RASMUSSEN
No less so than your legendary
modesty, Captain. I wish I could
describe to you what a thrill it
is to be here...
(he stops at the
painting over Picard's
couch)
This is the original, isn't it?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT ONE 8.
8 CONTINUED:
PICARD
You flatter me Professor, but I
can't help but wonder what could
possibly have caused you to select
me as the subject of your study.
Even in this decade, there are
far wiser and more experienced
Humans both in and out of
Starfleet.
RASMUSSEN
I'd love to tell you, Picard.
I really would. But try and
imagine what a young Caesar might
have done differently if someone
had given him a hint of what lay
ahead. Or, if Lincoln had been
coerced into changing his theater
plans. I truly wish I could be
more specific on why you were
selected, but I'm afraid the
exchange of information will have
to flow in one direction only.
As Rasmussen talks, he walks to the door and paces out
the distance to the window.
RASMUSSEN
...four... five... six... seven
meters. HA! I was right!
Off Picard's look...
9 INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, BEVERLY, TROI, Data and Geordi.
Rasmussen is sitting beside Picard.
WORF
Why now?
GEORDI
Right. If you came back to study
us, to study the captain, why did
you pick today? Why not a year
ago... or a year from now?
RASMUSSEN
Oh, I picked the right day
alright. Just wait, you'll see.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT ONE 9.
9 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN (cont'd)
(to Worf)
Do you always sit there, on that
side of the table?
WORF
Usually. Why?
RASMUSSEN
(shakes his head and
smiles)
It's not important.
Worf is starting to dislike this man.
RIKER
Tell me, Professor, at what point
does time travel become a tool
for historians?
RASMUSSEN
Now, now, Commander. You know
better than that. I've studied
a great deal about your century.
Including the fact that you're
all quite aware of the dangers
of anyone altering the past. And
that's exactly what I'd be doing
if I were to divulge information
like that.
BEVERLY
Telurian plague!
RASMUSSEN
I beg your pardon?
BEVERLY
Telurian plague... was it cured?
I mean, has it been cured by your
century? There can't be any harm
in asking that.
Rasmussen turns to Picard for help.
PICARD
I realize it will be difficult,
but we must all keep our questions
regarding the future to ourselves.
Professor...
Rasmussen stands.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT ONE 10.
9 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
I'll be preparing questionnaires
for each of you. Please complete
them at your convenience. If
you're concerned about a possible
breach of security, I'm sure your
captain can make a
determination... And, thank you
in advance for curbing your
curiosity.
GEORDI
(sarcastic)
If I hand my assignment in on
time, do I get a little glimpse
into next week's poker game?
Rasmussen laughs good heartedly.
PICARD
Mister Data, please show the
Professor to his quarters.
DATA
(standing)
This way, sir.
Data leads Rasmussen to the door and they EXIT.
RIKER
What did he mean he picked the
right day?
PICARD
You know everything I do, Will.
RIKER
Deanna?
TROI
It's hard to tell. But he is
holding something back.
BEVERLY
(to Troi)
Of course he is. Think of all
the things he could tell us...
all the things he'd like to tell
us...
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT ONE 11.
9 CONTINUED: (3)
TROI
(shaking her head)
That might be it, I don't know.
RIKER
How can we be sure he's not an
imposter? God knows we've run
into enough of them.
PICARD
He is Human. Our medical scans
have proved that. Haven't they,
Doctor?
BEVERLY
He's Human, alright.
PICARD
And there was a temporal
distortion back there, correct
Mister Worf?
WORF
(begrudgingly)
Yes, sir.
PICARD
And no one can deny that ship of
his is unlike anything we've ever
seen before.
GEORDI
The hull is composed of some kind
of plasticized tritanium mesh.
Nothing we have on record... at
least not 'til the present.
Worf grumbles skeptically.
PICARD
I appreciate your caution, Mister
Worf. I share it. Have his
vessel brought into a shuttlebay.
Place it under guard.
WORF
Yes, sir.
PICARD
I realize this isn't going to
be an easy visit for some of you.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT ONE 11A.
9 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD (Cont'd)
Nevertheless, I've reviewed the
Professor's credentials, and
they're in order. So, I'd like
you all to extend him every
courtesy.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT ONE 12.
9 CONTINUED: (4)
WORF
(put upon)
Including questionnaires?
PICARD
Including questionnaires.
Dismissed.
As all stand to leave, we CUT TO...
10 INT. TURBOLIFT
Rasmussen and Data. The lift is in motion. Rasmussen
is inspecting Data like a car enthusiast would a
vintage Ferrari.
RASMUSSEN
This is really a thrill, Data.
Like running across a Redstone
missile or a Guttenberg bible.
To think... the Model T of
androids.
The lift stops and the doors open. Rasmussen and Data
EXIT into the corridor.
11 INT. CORRIDOR
as Rasmussen and Data head for Rasmussen's quarters.
DATA
If you're referring to the first
production model automobile of
the twentieth century, perhaps the
subsequent Model A might be a more
apt analogy since I am Noonian
Soong's revised prototype.
Rasmussen continues to check Data out as they reach his
quarters.
RASMUSSEN
I stand corrected.
The door opens and they go in...
12 INT. RASMUSSEN'S QUARTERS
Rasmussen looks around, disappointed.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT ONE 13.
12 CONTINUED:
DATA
Is there a problem, sir?
RASMUSSEN
I suppose it will have to do, for
now. I'll get you a list of
things I'll be needing. You're
dismissed.
Data starts to leave. Rasmussen walks to the sink and
begins to wash his hands.
DATA
(almost shy)
Would I be correct, Professor,
in assuming that you know whether
or not I am still... alive in
the twenty-sixth century?
Rasmussen ignores Data. He finishes washing and holds
out his hand, treating Data like a men's room
attendant. After a beat, Data catches on and hands him
a towel.
DATA
(continuing his line
of questioning)
Since you seemed to know so much
about Captain Picard and the
ship... I assumed that you
would...
Rasmussen sits at his desk.
RASMUSSEN
(patronizing)
It would be best if you kept your
assumptions to yourself, wouldn't
it?
DATA
Yes, sir. I am sorry, sir.
Data EXITS and Rasmussen looks after him, again
fascinated. He sits back, and smiles. Whatever his
plans, they are clearly going just as he'd hoped.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 14.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
13 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
comes out of warp.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45334.5.
We have arrived at Penthara
Four...
14 EXT. SPACE - ANOTHER ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As the Enterprise enters orbit of a planet partially
covered by huge dark clouds of dust.
PICARD (V.O.)
(continuing)
... and can see for ourselves the
atmospheric devastation caused
by the asteroid impact.
15 EXT. PENTHARA IV - MATTE PAINTING
A city with eerie dark clouds above. It is snowing
heavily.
16 INT. PENTHARA SCIENCE LAB
Meteorologist HAL MOSELEY's large cluttered office has
been temporarily transformed into a crisis center.
NUMEROUS N.D. SCIENTISTS move from one set of monitors
to another. Picard and Geordi are beside Moseley.
The snow can be seen through windows. Picard points
to a map on a monitor.
PICARD
We've located three underground
pockets of carbon dioxide...
here, here and here. Our drilling
phasers can release enough of the
gas to form an envelope which
would temporarily hold in the heat
from the sun.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 15.
16 CONTINUED:
MOSELEY
(laughing at the irony)
We spend years, decades trying
to avoid anything that would lead
to a greenhouse effect and here
we are about to create one on
purpose.
GEORDI
Less than twenty percent of your
normal sunlight is getting through
that dust, Doctor. If we can hold
enough heat in with the CO2, it
should give the planet time to
mend itself.
A worried FEMALE SCIENTIST approaches.
FEMALE
Doctor Moseley.
MOSELEY
(seeing her expression)
What now?
FEMALE
New Seattle is reporting a cloud
depth of twelve kilometers. Two
rivers, tropical rivers, are
beginning to freeze.
Moseley turns to Picard.
MOSELEY
We better get started before
there's nothing left to mend.
Off their reactions...
17 INT. TEN FORWARD
Rasmussen ENTERS holding a small pile of rectangular
chips and looks around gleefully. He sees Riker,
Worf, and Beverly at a table and heads over to join
them.
RIKER
(quietly)
Look who's here.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 16.
17 CONTINUED:
WORF
I hate questionnaires.
BEVERLY
(with enthusiasm, she's
quite taken with
Rasmussen)
Professor, please come join us.
Rasmussen goes to sit next to Worf, but thinks better
of it and sits near Beverly.
RASMUSSEN
I hope I'm not intruding.
BEVERLY
Not at all. You're probably the
topic of conversation at every
table in the room.
Rasmussen shuffles through the chips, finds the three
appropriate ones, and distributes them to those
present.
RASMUSSEN
As I promised, here are your
assignments. I'm sure they'll
be painless. Please try to
complete them by tomorrow.
WORF
(peeved)
Tomorrow!
Riker makes eye contact with Worf. Tells him to cool
it. However, he feels almost as put-upon as his
tactical officer.
RIKER
No problem, Professor.
Rasmussen looks from face to face, fascinated.
RASMUSSEN
(smiling)
You're all very calm.
RIKER
(puzzled)
Do we have reason not to be?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 17.
17 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
History always records where
people were, what they were doing,
when important events took place.
But it rarely remembers their
activities -- say, a week before...
or a day... or even an hour.
WORF
Are you suggesting an important
event is imminent?
RASMUSSEN
I didn't say that, did I?
Please... go on doing what you
were doing, pretend I'm not here.
They are all a bit uncomfortable, unable to "go on
doing what they were doing."
RIKER
(after a long beat)
How come there's no record of
other future historians traveling
back to witness "important
events?"
RASMUSSEN
We're obviously very careful.
Matter of fact, a colleague and
I recently paid a call on a
twenty-second century vessel.
BEVERLY
(fascinated)
They hadn't even perfected
quarantine fields by then. You
must have seen surgical masks and
gloves.
RASMUSSEN
Isn't it fascinating how everyone
has different interests when it
comes to history... different
perspectives on progress.
Rasmussen opens a small finger ring, looks inside,
smiles, and closes it.
RIKER
Mind if I ask what that is?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 18.
17 CONTINUED: (3)
RASMUSSEN
Just checking the time... No
problem.
RIKER
(getting a bit
frustrated)
Is something supposed to be
happening here?
Rasmussen waves his hand, dismissing the question.
RASMUSSEN
No, no, nothing.
(changing the subject)
What about you, Commander? What
do you see as the most important
example of progress over the
last two hundred years?
RIKER
(pauses)
I suppose the warp coil. Before
we had warp drive, Humans were
confined to a single sector of
the galaxy.
RASMUSSEN
Spoken like the consummate
explorer.
Rasmussen looks around the room, as if he were waiting
for something to happen.
RIKER
What's going on? You waiting for
someone?
WORF
(abruptly)
Phasers!
Riker and Rasmussen turn to Worf.
RIKER
Where?!
RASMUSSEN
Beg your pardon?
WORF
There were no phasers in the 22nd
century.
Riker sighs and sits back.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT TWO 19.
17 CONTINUED: (4)
RASMUSSEN
Ah, you see Doctor? Our Klingon
friend is a perfect example of
what I was trying to tell you.
He views history through the eyes
of a hunter, a warrior. His
passion lies in the perfection
of the tools of violence. How
delightfully primitive.
Off Worf's reaction we:
CUT TO:
18 INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)
Geordi and an N.D. ENGINEER are at a console.
GEORDI
As soon as we input this
atmospheric data from Moseley,
the computer should tell us
how many holes we'll have to
punch.
He hands a chip to the engineer, who nods and EXITS as
Data ENTERS.
GEORDI
(continuing)
Ah, Data. Good.
DATA
What have you learned about the
tectonic stability around the
drilling sites?
Rasmussen ENTERS, unnoticed.
GEORDI
Couldn't be better. Our scans
were all clear and Moseley says
there hasn't been so much as a
quiver in over a century.
RASMUSSEN
Ah, just the two I'm looking for.
I've brought the forms I'd like
you to complete.
Rasmussen hands Geordi and Data a chip each.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 20.
18 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
It shouldn't take more than a
couple of hours.
GEORDI
We're kind of busy here,
Professor. Tomorrow might be
better.
(to Data, as he points
to a monitor)
We've got about twenty-three
thousand thermal simulations.
You think you could check them
through for anomalies?
DATA
Certainly.
Data sits down at the monitor and begins to punch keys
as the numbers scroll by at a great speed.
RASMUSSEN
(to Geordi)
Is that as fast as he can go?
GEORDI
Not fast enough for you,
Professor?
RASMUSSEN
There's very little known about
Data's efficiency... almost
nothing about his part in this
mission. It's a topic of great
conjecture.
DATA
(finishing his task)
Two hundred nine anomalies all
within acceptable parameters.
GEORDI
Thanks, Data.
(to Rasmussen)
You've come to witness this
mission... that's it, isn't it?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 21.
18 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
(checking his ring)
It would be best if you just
thought of me as a fly on the
wall, and went about your
business.
Data stands.
DATA
(to Rasmussen, re:
the chip)
I will return the answered
questions to you as soon as
possible, sir.
As Data EXITS into Main Engineering...
RASMUSSEN
(as if he were saying
"Moses on the
Mountain")
Data... at Penthara Four!
Geordi doesn't have time for this, he heads to another
terminal.
GEORDI
If you'll excuse me.
RASMUSSEN
(following)
Your prosthesis...
(trying to remember)
What do you call it?
GEORDI
A VISOR.
RASMUSSEN
VISOR, right. I have a picture
of you in my office wearing that.
How do you like it?
GEORDI
("when's this guy gonna
shut up?")
It allows me to see... I like it
fine.
RASMUSSEN
You know, Homer was blind... and
Milton. Bach, Monet, Wonder...
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 22.
18 CONTINUED: (3)
GEORDI
(walking into
engineering)
A fly on the wall, eh?
Rasmussen picks up a small PADD and innocently drops it
into his pocket. He follows Geordi.
RASMUSSEN
(amiably)
A fly on the wall.
Geordi has rejoined Data at the pool table.
DATA
The computer has configured the
drilling pattern and specified
depths.
GEORDI
(taps insignia)
Captain, we've got what we need.
I'm ready to transport to the
surface.
PICARD'S COM VOICE
We'll notify Doctor Moseley. Good
luck, Geordi.
GEORDI
(To Data and Rasmussen)
Gentlemen.
Geordi EXITS. Rasmussen looks as though the curtain is
about to go up.
RASMUSSEN
(to Data)
Who said these moments were any
less exciting when you know the
outcome?
DATA
(puzzled)
I know of no one who said that,
Professor.
Off Rasmussen's reaction we:
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 23.
19 EXT. PENTHARA IV - MATTE PAINTING (OPTICAL)
of the city. The dark clouds have worsened. It is
still snowing.
20 INT. SCIENCE LAB
Geordi and Doctor Moseley are at a large bank of
monitoring equipment. The shrouded sky is visible
through windows. The snow continues. Geordi points
to a diagram.
GEORDI
The Enterprise will monitor the
CO2 concentrations at six
different altitudes. If all goes
well, it won't take more than
twenty bore sites.
MOSELEY
Let's hope all goes well.
GEORDI
(hits his com button)
La Forge to Commander Riker. How
are you doing?
INTERCUT:
21 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Worf, the Ensign and SUPERNUMERARIES
at their stations.
RIKER
We're ready when you are, Geordi.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
All we need's an open channel
with Data.
Riker stands up, begins to pace.
RIKER
Open the channel, Mister Worf,
and prepare to fire at target one.
WORF
The computer has locked in phaser
depth calculations.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 24.
21 CONTINUED:
RIKER
Mister Data?
DATA'S COM VOICE
Ready, sir.
Riker looks to Picard, who nods.
RIKER
Fire.
22 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the beam leaves the ship.
23 EXT. PENTHARA IV - MATTE PAINTING (OPTICAL)
as the beam bores into tundra. It is still snowing.
The beam stops and is immediately followed by another,
which hits a distance away.
24 INT. ENGINEERING
Data at a console. Other supernumeraries working at
various stations.
DATA
Target one is emitting two
thousand cubic meters per second.
Target two, one thousand six
hundred.
INTERCUT:
25 INT. SCIENCE LAB
as before.
MOSELEY
Surface wind patterns over targets
are stable.
GEORDI
You picking up anything at
altitude, Data?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 25.
25 CONTINUED:
DATA'S COM VOICE
CO2 concentrations remain
unchanged at upper elevations.
26 EXT. PENTHARA IV - MATTE PAINTING (OPTICAL)
It is snowing. In the distance, a hole is being
drilled by the phaser. Then another. It ends and
suddenly a third hits very close to CAMERA.
27 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
as before. Riker continues to pace. Rasmussen ENTERS.
RASMUSSEN
Have I missed much?
He walks into the command area and sits in Riker's
chair.
WORF
Target fourteen complete, sir.
RIKER
Data?
DATA'S COM VOICE
No change, Commander.
Riker turns, notices Rasmussen in his chair. He's not
pleased, but continues monitoring the situation at
hand.
RIKER
Winds, Geordi?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Holding steady, sir.
An alarm is heard.
WORF
The computer has stopped the
drilling.
RIKER
You should be getting something,
Data.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT TWO 26.
28 INT. ENGINEERING
as before. A beep is heard from his console.
DATA
(pleased)
Elevated CO2 levels at twenty
kilometers.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
Now you're talking. And we've
got some new temperatures coming in.
29 INT. SCIENCE LAB
as before.
MOSELEY
(excited; reading his
monitor)
All thermal monitoring stations
are reporting no further
temperature drops.
GEORDI
(equally excited)
Correction, Doctor. Two
equatorial stations are showing
slight increases.
Moseley sees it's working and turns to Geordi.
MOSELEY
Thank you.
(to com)
Thank you all. You've given us
what we need... time.
30 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
as before. Rasmussen is still in Riker's chair.
PICARD
Glad we could help, Doctor. The
Enterprise will remain in orbit
and continue to monitor your
progress. Picard out.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT TWO 27.
30 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
(quoting historically)
"You've given us what we need...
Time."
PICARD
Mister Worf, return to a
synchronous orbit.
WORF
Aye, sir.
RASMUSSEN
Very clever, Picard. And, well
done. We've always known how you
did it, but to experience the
moment, to witness the nuances...
it's indescribable.
Picard reacts. Rasmussen sits back and smiles.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT THREE 28.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
31 INT. SICKBAY
Beverly is running an instrument along A MALE PATIENT's
injured leg. At another station A BOY is being treated
by an N.D. NURSE. Troi stands with Beverly.
TROI
He's after more than a history
lesson. I can tell you that.
BEVERLY
What is it? What are you getting
from him?
TROI
I don't know. But it's like he's
trying to confuse us... misdirect
us somehow.
Rasmussen ENTERS.
RASMUSSEN
Well that certainly was exciting,
wasn't it?
BEVERLY
Professor. Is everything alright?
Are you well?
RASMUSSEN
Couldn't be better, thank you.
I just thought we might chat about
your questionnaire.
(to the prone patient)
Buck up, crewman, you're a credit
to that uniform.
TROI
I've got some things to take care
of.
RASMUSSEN
No, please Counselor. I would
very much appreciate your
remaining.
Troi remains. She obviously doesn't like this guy.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT THREE 29.
31 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
Doctor, in response to my sixth
question, you spoke of a neural
stimulator. May I see one?
BEVERLY
I don't see why not.
(she finishes her
treatment)
Give me a minute.
Beverly EXITS. Rasmussen and Troi walk slowly away
from the male patient.
RASMUSSEN
(to Troi)
You don't like me very much, do
you?
TROI
I don't dislike you, Professor.
They pass the nurse and child.
RASMUSSEN
(to child)
Keep your eyes wide, soldier.
You'll be telling your
grandchildren how you were there
at Penthara Four.
(back to Troi)
But you don't trust me. You
should, you know.
TROI
Should I?
RASMUSSEN
"Picard's empath won't trust you."
That's what they all said.
TROI
Picard's empath?
RASMUSSEN
We're not that unalike, you and
I. You possess a sense that is
foreign to the others. My
knowledge of the future is
similar. You know, some of my
best friends are empaths... they
trust me.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT THREE 30.
31 CONTINUED: (2)
TROI
Why would you care whether I trust
you or not?
RASMUSSEN
We're birds of a feather...
colleagues. We could learn a lot
from each other.
TROI
You're right... I don't trust you.
Beverly returns carrying a neural stimulator.
RASMUSSEN
(to Troi; a syrupy
smile)
I knew you'd say that.
TROI
(returning the smile)
I'm sure you did.
BEVERLY
(handing the neural
simulator to Rasmussen)
Well, it's nice to see you two
are finally getting along.
TROI
(holding back her
sarcasm)
I really must be going.
As Troi EXITS, Beverly turns back to Rasmussen with a
warm smile. He returns the smile but seems a bit shy.
There's an awkward beat which ends when a NURSE hands
Beverly a PADD. Beverly punches something in and hands
it back to the nurse.
BEVERLY
Why don't you try a Berylite scan?
I'd be interested to see where
his micro-levels are.
The nurse nods and EXITS. Beverly turns back to
Rasmussen.
BEVERLY
So... what else can I show you?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT THREE 31.
31 CONTINUED: (3)
RASMUSSEN
You're a very curious woman.
Beverly reacts.
RASMUSSEN
No, no. I don't mean curious like
that. I mean you're curious...
curious about things. About
Berylite levels... about the
future.
They begin to walk back toward Beverly's office.
BEVERLY
(smiling)
Curiosity is why most of us are
out here, professor.
RASMUSSEN
I understand. But you're
different. More... vibrant.
More...
Rasmussen is fishing for a word.
BEVERLY
More vibrant. That's nice, I like
that.
They enter the vestibule outside Beverly's office.
RASMUSSEN
You know, whenever I... travel
back, I meet very interesting
people... men and women. But
never anyone who gave me thoughts
about not going home.
Beverly is genuinely flattered, a bit turned-on.
BEVERLY
You're not supposed to be
influencing the past, remember?
And I'm beginning to feel a
little... influenced. Anyway,
I'm old enough to be your great,
great, great, great, grandmother!
Rasmussen smiles warmly...
CUT TO:
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT THREE 32.
32 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, the Ensign and other
supernumeraries at their stations.
PICARD
What kind of questions did he have
for you, Number One?
RIKER
All he wanted to know about was
previous starships. What I
thought was innovative on the
last Enterprise or the one before
that. He said he wanted to see
how well we "grasped the
fundamentals."
DATA
His queries to me primarily
focused on Doctor Soong's...
An ALARM is heard.
WORF
Captain, I am detecting a massive
earthquake on the surface.
Another ALARM is heard. Riker moves to an aft station.
WORF
(continuing)
Two earthquakes, sir.
PICARD
Location?
DATA
Both epicenters are beneath the
two southernmost drill sites,
Captain.
PICARD
Is La Forge still down there?
WORF
Yes, sir.
PICARD
Find him.
Worf starts pushing buttons on his panel. Another
alarm is heard.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT THREE 33.
32 CONTINUED:
RIKER
We've also got some volcanic
activity... pretty severe.
PICARD
Magnify.
33 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
as the screen changes from a wider view of the planet
to a closer view, we see huge volcanic plumes rising
through the dense dust clouds.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
La Forge here, Captain. Moseley
and I are on our way back to his
lab.
PICARD
Are you alright?
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
We're okay, but those were pretty
big, sir. If this was Earth, I'd
say around an eight or an eight
five on the Richter Scale. We're
starting to see some volcanic
plumes, Captain.
More alarms are heard.
34 ANOTHER ANGLE
WORF
Two more eruptions, sir.
DATA
It is most likely that we
overestimated the geologic
stability around the CO2 pockets.
GEORDI'S COM VOICE
We're in the lab, sir.
Picard motions to Worf to put Geordi on the viewscreen.
35 ANGLE TO INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
and we see the interior of the lab. Everyone is busy
dealing with the emergency.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT THREE 34.
35 CONTINUED:
MOSELEY
We're fairly well quake-proofed
down here, Picard. It's the
volcanic dust I'm worried about.
Another jolt hits the lab.
PICARD
(to Moseley)
What about the dust?
Another jolt hits the lab.
GEORDI
The ash the volcanos are throwing
into the atmosphere is going to
compound the existing problem.
In a matter of days, there'll be
no sunlight getting through those
clouds.
MOSELEY
And no amount of CO2 is going to
help us then.
RIKER
Captain, look at this.
Picard walks quickly to the aft station. Riker points
to one of two maps on a monitor.
RIKER
(continuing)
These are the coordinates of the
eruptions, and these...
Riker points to the other map.
RIKER
(continuing)
... are the phaser drilling sites.
Riker presses a button and the two drawings overlap.
The points are nearly identical. Picard looks up at
Riker. Both men are aware of what has happened.
PICARD
The mantle is collapsing where
the pressure was released.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT THREE 35.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
GEORDI
Captain, Doctor Moseley and I have
a couple of ideas, but they're
going to take some time to sort
out.
PICARD
Sort them out, Commander.
GEORDI
Aye, sir.
The view of the lab is replaced by the shrouded planet
with multiple volcanic plumes now visible. Lightning
can be seen at the cloud tops.
RIKER
(looking at the screen)
We came here to help these people.
PICARD
And look what we've done.
Off Picard's reaction we:
CUT TO:
36 EXT SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit.
37 INT. CORRIDOR
Rasmussen walks by some crewmen and cheerfully nods.
He goes to Data's door, rings the bell. The door opens
and a bizarre cacophony of sounds almost overpowers
him.
38 INT. DATA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
Data is busy at his console.
RASMUSSEN
(shouting)
What in God's name is that?!
DATA
(shouting)
Music, Professor.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT THREE 36.
38 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
(shouting)
Music?
DATA
(shouting)
Yes, sir. Mozart's "Jupiter
symphony in G minor"; Bach's "Third
Brandenberg Concerto"; Beethoven's
"Symphony Number Nine, Second
Movement 'Molto Vivace'"; and "La
Donna e Mobile", from Verdi's
"Rigoletto".
RASMUSSEN
(shouting)
Could you thin it out a bit?
DATA
Computer, eliminate Program One.
One of the four compositions is silenced. Rasmussen
shakes his head.
DATA
Computer, eliminate Program Two.
Another program stops. Rasmussen shakes his head
again.
DATA
Computer, eliminate Program Three.
Only one is still playing. Rasmussen uses his finger
to suggest Data turn it down.
DATA
Computer, half volume.
The sound gets quieter and Rasmussen nods approval.
RASMUSSEN
How the hell can you listen to
four pieces of music at the same
time?
DATA
Actually, I am capable of
distinguishing over one hundred
fifty simultaneous compositions.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT THREE 36A.
38 CONTINUED: (2)
DATA (cont'd)
But in order to analyze the
aesthetics, I try to limit myself
to ten or less.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT THREE 37.
38 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
(sarcastic)
Only four today?
DATA
I am assisting Commander La Forge
in the analysis of an extremely
complex calculation. It demands
a great deal of my concentration.
RASMUSSEN
I came to thank you for answering
my questions, though I probably
should have asked you to limit
yourself to fifty thousand words.
DATA
You did ask me to be thorough.
RASMUSSEN
I realize it's hard to believe,
Data, but very few records of
Doctor Soong's work survived to
the twenty-sixth century. It
would be invaluable to myself and
other historians if you could
provide us with some schematics.
DATA
Certainly, as soon as my work here
is completed.
RASMUSSEN
Just as long as it's before
oh-nine-hundred tomorrow. That's
when I'll be... heading back.
WORF'S COM VOICE
Bridge to Commander Data.
DATA
Yes, Worf.
WORF
Commander La Forge is hailing you
from the surface, sir.
DATA
Patch it through, please.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT THREE 38.
38 CONTINUED: (3)
Geordi appears on Data's MONITOR. As soon as Data
turns, Rasmussen takes a tricorder from the desk and,
almost inadvertantly, pockets it.
GEORDI
Have you rerun the phase reversal
figures, Data?
DATA
There were no errors, Geordi.
The variance must be no more than
point zero six terawatts.
GEORDI
I don't see any other choice.
We'll keep running the numbers
down here. You better inform the
captain... of the good news and
the bad news. La Forge out.
The monitor goes to black.
RASMUSSEN
(amused)
Which do you suppose he's going
to want to hear first?
Off Data's reaction we CUT TO:
39 INT. READY ROOM
We open on CU of Picard. Data is there.
PICARD
The good news.
DATA
The motion of the dust has created
a great deal of electrostatic
energy in the upper atmosphere.
With a modified phaser blast, we
could create a shock-front that
would encircle the planet and
ionize the particles.
PICARD
That would be like striking a
spark in a room filled with gas.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT THREE 39.
39 CONTINUED:
DATA
With one exception, sir. The
particles would be converted
into a high-energy plasma which
our shields could absorb and
redirect harmlessly into space.
PICARD
Turn the Enterprise into a
lightning rod.
DATA
Precisely, sir.
PICARD
And what about the bad news, Data?
DATA
If our phaser discharge is off
by as little as point-zero-six
terawatts, it would cause a
cascading exothermal inversion.
PICARD
Meaning?
DATA
We would completely burn off the
planet's atmosphere.
Off Picard's reaction we:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FOUR 40.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
41 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit over the shrouded planet. The lightning
continues.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, supplemental.
While Doctor Moseley takes La
Forge's plan to the leaders of
the colony, I find myself weighing
the potential consequences of a
more philosophical issue.
42 INT. READY ROOM
Picard is staring out the window deep in thought. The
door chimes.
PICARD
(not turning)
Come.
Rasmussen ENTERS. Picard continues to stare out the
window.
PICARD
I would imagine you know why I've
asked you here.
RASMUSSEN
I have a fairly good idea.
PICARD
I'm faced with a dilemma. There's
a planet beneath us that is slowly
turning to ice. If we don't do
something about it, I'm told that
within weeks, thousands, perhaps
tens of thousands, will die.
RASMUSSEN
That would be a shame.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT FOUR 41.
42 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(turning to Rasmussen)
Yes, it would. It would be quite
a shame.
RASMUSSEN
So what's your dilemma?
PICARD
Mister La Forge has a possible
solution. The margin of error
is extremely critical, but if it's
successful, there's no more
threat.
RASMUSSEN
And if it's not successful?
PICARD
Every living thing on the planet
will perish.
RASMUSSEN
So... do nothing and thousands
will die. Do something and
millions could die. Tough choice.
PICARD
(speaking hypothetically
-- he's not asking)
Not if you were to help me.
RASMUSSEN
You're not suggesting I tell you
the outcome of your efforts?
PICARD
No, I'm not. Everything Starfleet
stands for, everything I've ever
believed in, tells me I can't
ask you that.
(pause)
But at the same time, there are
twenty million lives down there,
and you know what happened to
them... what will happen to them.
RASMUSSEN
So, it seems you have another
dilemma. One that questions your
convictions.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT FOUR 42.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
I have never been afraid to
reevaluate my convictions,
Professor. Right now, I have
twenty million reasons to do so.
RASMUSSEN
And why did you ask to see me?
PICARD
Your presence potentially gives
me access to a kind of information
that was never available to me
before. An additional tool, a
new weapon in my armory... you,
Professor. If I'm going to
reexamine my beliefs, I must
take advantage of every possible
asset. It would be irresponsible
of me not to have you here.
RASMUSSEN
However you come to terms with
your beliefs, Captain, I must
tell you I'm quite comfortable
with mine.
PICARD
How can you be? How can you be
"comfortable" watching people die?
RASMUSSEN
(patronizing)
Let me put it this way. If I were
to tell you that none of those
people died, you'd easily conclude
that you tried your "solution"
and it succeeded. So, you'd
confidently try again. No harm
in that. But what if I were to
tell you they all died? What
then? Obviously, you'd decide not
to make the same mistake twice.
Now, what if one of those...
PICARD
(interrupting)
I know, Professor, "What if one
of those lives I save down there
is a child who grows up to be the
next Adolf Hitler or Khan Singh?"
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT FOUR 43.
42 CONTINUED: (3)
PICARD (cont'd)
First year philosophy students
have been asked that question ever
since the earliest wormholes were
discovered. But this is not a
class in temporal logic... It's
not hypothetical, it's real.
Can't you see that?
RASMUSSEN
I see it all too well. But you
must see that if I were to
influence you, everything in this
sector, in this quadrant of the
galaxy could change. History, my
history, would unfold in a way
other than it already has. Now
what possible incentive could
anyone offer me to allow that to
happen?
PICARD
I have two choices. Either way,
one version or another of history
will wend its way forward. The
history you know or another one.
Who's to say which is better?
All I know here, today, is that
one way, millions of lives could
be saved. Isn't that incentive
enough?
RASMUSSEN
Everyone dies, Captain. It's just
a question of when. All of those
people down there died years
before I was born. All of you
up here, as well. So you see,
I can't get quite as worked up
as you over the fate of some
colonists who, for me, have been
dead a long time.
PICARD
We have a Prime Directive,
Professor, which tells us we have
no right to interfere with the
natural evolution of alien worlds.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT FOUR 44.
42 CONTINUED: (4)
PICARD (cont'd)
But even though I am sworn to
uphold it, I have disregarded that
directive on more than one
occasion... When I knew it was
the right thing to do. If you
are holding true to some
"temporal" equivalent of that
directive, isn't there a
possibility that this is an
occasion for you to make an
exception, to help me choose...
because it's the right thing to
do?
RASMUSSEN
Are we just talking about a
choice? It sounds to me like
you're trying to manipulate the
future.
PICARD
Every choice we make allows us
to manipulate the future. Do I
ask Marie or Suzanne to the spring
dance? Do I take my holiday on
Tahiti or on Risa? A man's life,
his future, hinges on each of a
thousand choices. Living is
making choices.
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/26/91 - ACT FOUR 45.
42 CONTINUED: (5)
PICARD (cont'd)
Now you ask me to believe that
if I make a choice other than the
one found in your history books,
it could irreparably alter your
past! Well, perhaps I don't give
a damn about your past, Professor
Rasmussen. Because your past is
my future and as far as I'm
concerned, it hasn't been written
yet.
RIKER'S COM VOICE
Captain, the electrostatic
conditions are about as good as
they're going to get. If we're
going to try this, now's the time.
Picard turns to Rasmussen. A beat.
For a brief instant Rasmussen's guard drops. His
cockiness now has a trace of remorse.
RASMUSSEN
Please don't ask me, Captain.
I can't help you. I'm sorry.
After a long stare, Picard almost seems to smile. He
turns and EXITS. Rasmussen innocently returns the
smile and follows Picard onto the bridge. On his way
out, Rasmussen takes a small pile of isolinear chips
from a table. They disappear into his pocket.
43 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard ENTERS with Rasmussen following. Riker, Data,
Worf, the Ensign and supernumeraries at their stations.
PICARD
(to Riker)
How long will it take them to
program the phasers, Number One?
RIKER
(seeing Picard means
business)
We just need to tie in Geordi's
atmospheric sensors.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/30/91 - ACT FOUR 45A.
43 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
So you've made your choice after
all... and without my help.
PICARD
Quite the contrary, Professor.
You've been quite helpful.
RASMUSSEN
How's that?
PICARD
By your refusing to assist me,
I'm left with the same choice I
began with; to try or not to
try... to run the risk or to play
it safe. But your arguments have
reminded me how precious the right
to choose can be... that right
or wrong, the choice is mine.
And since I've never been much
for playing it safe... I choose
to try.
Rasmussen smiles. Picard turns his back on him.
PICARD
Program the firing sequence,
Mister Data.
DATA
Aye, sir.
Off their reactions we:
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
44 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit over the shrouded planet. The ship is
oriented so the deflector dish is facing the surface.
The lightning has increased.
PICARD (V.O.)
Captain's log, stardate 45335.0.
Doctor Moseley has met with the
colony leaders, who all agree
they are willing to take the
risk.
45 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
Picard, Riker, Data, Worf, the Ensign and other
supernumeraries, as before. Rasmussen sits in Troi's
chair.
WORF
(to Geordi on
viewscreen)
Warp power is being rerouted to
the main deflector dish,
Commander.
46 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
where we see Geordi and Moseley working in the lab.
The snow is still falling heavily.
GEORDI
Keep the phasers on active surge
control, Worf. We're only going
to have one shot at this.
47 RESUME SCENE (INTERCUT BRIDGE AND LAB AS NEEDED) -
(OPTICAL)
Rasmussen almost can't control himself.
RASMUSSEN
Well, this is it!
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 47.
47 CONTINUED:
RIKER
(ignoring Rasmussen)
You have the sequence locked in,
Data?
DATA
Yes, sir. After an eight point
three second burst from the dish,
we will discharge all EPS taps
through the phasers.
PICARD
Geordi, it's time you return to
the ship.
(to com)
Mister O'Brien, prepare to
transport...
GEORDI
Excuse me, sir, but I can be a
lot more help down here. We've
got to compensate for the density
variations right up to the last
second.
Picard looks questioningly at Data.
DATA
Doctor Moseley's computers can
accomplish the same task, sir.
But Commander La Forge would be
better able to anticipate
unexpected variances.
PICARD
(looking at the screen)
Geordi, you know better than
anyone that there's no guarantee
this is going to work. And if
it fails...
GEORDI
There's no guarantee it's going
to fail, Captain. I'd like your
permission to remain on the
surface.
Picard looks at Riker. A beat.
PICARD
Permission granted.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 48.
47 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN
(like a well-known fact)
La Forge remained below.
PICARD
Good luck, Commander.
GEORDI
Thank you, sir.
The viewscreen switches to an image of the planet.
Continuous lightning flashes through the dark clouds
and volcanic plumes.
48 OMITTED
49 ANOTHER ANGLE
we hear a few beeps coming from Data's console.
DATA
The deflector dish has been
reconfigured, Captain.
Picard realizes the time has come. After a beat he
nods to Riker, who takes over.
RIKER
Proceed, Mister Data.
DATA
Stand by for auto-phaser interlock.
Activating deflector beam.
Data pushes a button.
50 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
Five parallel white beams shoot out from the deflector
dish.
51 EXT. SPACE - PENTHARA IV (OPTICAL)
as the beams partially disperse when they reach the
upper dust clouds.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT FIVE 49.
52 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
as before.
WORF
EPS taps are on-line.
(a beat)
Phasers firing.
53 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
(NOTE: The following sequence of opticals will take
only ten-twelve seconds.) A thin orange beam fires
parallel to the others.
54 EXT. SPACE - PENTHARA IV (OPTICAL)
The phaser beam hits the spot where the other beams
meet the cloud tops. A beat.
An enormous EXPLOSION far below us. The orange glow
spreads in all directions and quickly begins to envelop
the clouded atmosphere.
A few seconds later, as soon as the fiery orange
curtain has encapsulated the planet, a series of
glowing blue "fingers" spread from the far side toward
the point where the phaser originally hit. The blue
explosions are replacing the orange ones.
As the final streak of blue "glow" replaces the last
visible area of orange, a pillar of blue light forms
and streaks toward the Enterprise.
55 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
as the blue energy beam makes contact, enveloping the
ship.
56 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The bridge is vibrating and a huge roar is heard.
Everyone is understandably tense.
DATA
Activating shield invertors...
now!
Data hits a button.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 50.
57 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
The blue light, which continues to envelop the planet
below, is still being drawn to the Enterprise in the
form of a thin beam, enveloping the ship, as well.
The glowing ship rotates 180 degrees and an even
brighter blue beam appears from the deflector dish.
As it discharges out into space we see the glow on the
planet begin to dissipate as if it were being sucked
up through the beam reaching toward the ship, and then
off into deep space.
It's over in seconds. The pillar of light from the
planet vanishes as the last of the energy is deflected
through the dish.
58 INT. MAIN BRIDGE
The last reminders of the huge vibrations and noise
echo into silence. All is still.
59 ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
the now cloudless planet is visible. A few smaller
volcanic plumes can be seen.
60 RESUME
Picard looks to Riker and then to Data.
PICARD
(tentatively)
Mister La Forge?
A beat.
61 BACK TO VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
as it switches to the science lab, where there's a
guarded optimism reflected in all the faces. The snow
has stopped.
GEORDI
La Forge here. Still breathing,
Captain.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 51.
61 CONTINUED:
MOSELEY
Particulate levels are right where
they're supposed to be... and the
sun is shining!
GEORDI
You see, sir, I told you there
was nothing to worry about.
PICARD
Report back to the ship when
you're ready, Commander.
(to Moseley)
Doctor, we'll stay in orbit to
analyze the remaining volcanic
disturbances.
(smiling)
I think the best advice might be
to let them cool down on their
own.
MOSELEY
I'm getting in the habit of
thanking you, Picard.
Moseley touches a button and the screen returns to
the view of the cloudless planet.
Rasmussen stands and approaches Picard.
RASMUSSEN
Well, I'd love to see more, but
it's nearly time for me to go.
I'm tickled pink to have had the
opportunity of witnessing this,
Picard.
(patronizing)
And you did it all without any
help.
Rasmussen opens a ring on one of his fingers and looks
inside.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
I must run. I've got some packing
to do.
(as he passes Riker)
You know, you're taller in person.
As Rasmussen EXITS, Picard turns to Worf and nods.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 52.
62
thru OMITTED
63
64 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE - OPTICAL
in orbit around the planet.
65 INT. SHUTTLEBAY (OPTICAL)
Rasmussen, his valise over a shoulder, ENTERS to find
Picard, Beverly, Riker, Worf, and Data by his vessel.
An N.D. SECURITY GUARD stands nearby.
RASMUSSEN
Would you look at this. Who would
have suspected a teary farewell?
PICARD
I'm afraid we're going to have
to take a look in your vessel,
Professor.
RASMUSSEN
(they just don't get
it)
Curious till the end, eh, Captain?
Picard remains stern-faced.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
You can't be serious, Picard.
We've been through this more than
once and I...
PICARD
A number of objects have turned
up missing in the last few days.
If they are in your possession,
I would like them returned.
RASMUSSEN
I'm not here in search of relics.
Rasmussen opens his ring again, looks in and starts
toward his ship.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
I'm sure they'll turn up.
Worf blocks his way.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 53.
65 CONTINUED:
WORF
If you will not open the vessel,
I will... with explosives, if
necessary.
RASMUSSEN
(defiant)
I doubt you have the means.
RIKER
If we don't get in that thing,
I guarantee you won't either.
Rasmussen shows the first signs of panic. But it
vanishes and he smiles.
RASMUSSEN
(to Picard)
Considering the sensitive nature
of my equipment, I think you'll
understand if I request that only
Mister Data be allowed to see it.
RIKER
Why Data?
PICARD
(understanding)
Because if I order Data never to
divulge what he sees in there,
he won't.
(to Data)
With the exception of anything
that might belong to us.
DATA
Understood, sir.
Rasmussen smiles and leads Data toward the craft.
RASMUSSEN
Back in a minute.
Rasmussen presses the back of his hand and then his
palm against a specific point on the vessel and a door
APPEARS and OPENS. He enters followed by Data, who
glances back at Picard a beat before the door REAPPEARS
and CLOSES. Worf, Beverly, Picard and Riker look at
each other.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT FIVE 54.
66 INT. VESSEL
The vessel's interior, similar to its exterior, is
truly futuristic, with multifaceted panels containing
minimal blinkies. As Data ENTERS, he immediately
notices two large collector trays.
Normally slid into a rack, the trays are exposed and
filled with objects stolen from the Enterprise: two
tricorders, a neural stimulator, a hypospray and
bioscanner, one of Geordi's visors, PADDS, a small desk
top viewer, a Klingon knife, piles of isolinear chips
and other computer chips, palm beacons, even bar
glasses and silverware from Ten Forward, and various
other whatsits from here and there. Data examines the
loot and turns to Rasmussen.
DATA
I do not believe any of these
items belong to you, Professor.
Rasmussen raises a phaser at Data.
RASMUSSEN
Nor does this!
Data stands very still.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
This phaser is set at the highest
stun setting. If I'm correct,
that is sufficient to immobilize
even you.
DATA
Do you plan to put these objects
into a museum?
RASMUSSEN
They're far too valuable for that.
You see, in the century I come
from, they haven't even been
invented yet.
Data looks at the ship's futuristic design.
DATA
But this vessel... ? And the
temporal distortion that coincided
with your arrival?
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 55.
66 CONTINUED:
RASMUSSEN
Oh, this is a time-pod. And it
is from the twenty-sixth
century... at least that's what
the poor fellow said. You see,
he decided to travel back to the
twenty-second century... that's
my time, and he had the misfortune
of meeting me... His clothes
fit quite well, don't you think?
(gesturing to the pod)
Took me weeks to figure out how
to work this thing.
DATA
You are not an historian?
RASMUSSEN
More of an inventor. Up till a
few weeks ago, a dismally
unsuccessful one.
DATA
What are your intentions, now?
RASMUSSEN
Well, thanks to your captain, it
seems my intentions have changed
slightly.
He points to the trays.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
I was quite content with the
notion of returning with those
trinkets. I'd "invent" about one
a year. But now, look what
fortune has graced me with...
(pointing toward Data)
You will take a little longer to
figure out than a tricorder, but
it should be well worth the
effort.
He checks his ring.
RASMUSSEN
(continuing)
If the auto-timer is programmed
the way I think it is...
(MORE)
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 56.
66 CONTINUED: (2)
RASMUSSEN (cont'd)
in about two minutes we'll be on
our way back to a place called
New Jersey... I'm afraid you
won't be awake for the ride.
Rasmussen aims the phaser at Data and tries to fire,
but it only makes a lame noise. Panicked, he readjusts
and fires again... nothing.
DATA
I assume your hand print will open
the door whether you are conscious
or not.
Off Rasmussen's look, we CUT TO:
67 INT. SHUTTLEBAY - (OPTICAL)
Picard, Beverly, Riker, Worf, and an N.D. Security
guard, as before. The vessel door opens and Rasmussen
exits, closely followed by Data, who now carries the
phaser.
RASMUSSEN
(disgusted)
That weapon was working yesterday.
DATA
(to Picard, handing him
the phaser)
You were correct to suspect him,
sir. But he is from the past,
not the future.
Picard reacts to what Data says and turns to Rasmussen.
PICARD
(mimicking Rasmussen
in Act Four)
Trying to make my history unfold
in a way other than it already
has, Professor?
RASMUSSEN
This was all a misunderstanding,
Picard. Just let me back in there
and we'll forget the whole thing.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT FIVE 57.
67 CONTINUED:
PICARD
(still mimicking)
Now what possible incentive could
anyone offer me to allow that?
DATA
(to Riker)
I believe you will find all the
missing items in the vessel, sir.
Riker nods to Worf who acknowledges and heads into the
vessel. Rasmussen turns to Beverly with a desperate,
pleading look.
RASMUSSEN
Doctor...
BEVERLY
(ice)
A very nice performance.
RASMUSSEN
(a touch of remorse)
Not all of it. Some of it was
real.
Beverly's cold stare tells him he's wasting his time.
He checks his ring and turns toward Picard, panicky.
RASMUSSEN
Captain...
DATA
He claims to be a twenty-second
century inventor, sir.
PICARD
(it's all coming into
focus)
Well, it's too bad you weren't
a bit more inventive. If fewer
things had disappeared, we might
not have suspected you. As it
was, our only stumbling block was
your vessel. Our sensors couldn't
penetrate it.
Worf climbs out of the pod carrying the two trays.
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - REV. 9/25/91 - ACT FIVE 58.
67 CONTINUED: (2)
PICARD
(continuing)
But as soon as the door opened,
our computer was able to detect
and deactivate everything you'd
stolen...
(holding up the phaser)
... including this.
Picard drops it onto the top tray as Worf passes him.
Worf hands the trays to the N.D. security guard.
RASMUSSEN
I'd love to hear more, Picard,
but I really must get back in that
pod.
Rasmussen heads for the vessel, but is stopped by Worf.
Picard looks to Riker.
RIKER
Take him to a detention cell,
Mister Worf. And notify Starfleet
that we'll be dropping him off
at Starbase Two-one-four.
RASMUSSEN
(panicking, struggling)
You can't do this... I've got
to get back... I don't belong
here.
The tiny ship suddenly GLOWS, SHIMMERS, and DISAPPEARS.
Rasmussen can't believe it.
RASMUSSEN
No!
Worf walks him toward the exit.
PICARD
I'm sure there are more than a
few legitimate historians at
Starfleet who will be quite eager
to meet a Human from your era.
Worf and Rasmussen reach the exit.
PICARD
(continuing)
Oh, and Professor...
STAR TREK: "A Matter of Time" - 9/20/91 - ACT FIVE 59.
67 CONTINUED: (3)
Rasmussen stops and turns.
PICARD
(continuing)
Welcome to the twenty-fourth
century.
Worf and Rasmussen EXIT. Off reactions, we CUT TO:
68 EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)
in orbit of Penthara IV.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END